Winn bonus as Barker set to prove formidable ally in Rás

JULIAN WINN, a former winner of the FBD Insurance Rás, will have a powerful new ally when he bids for a second title on Sunday week, with Yanto Barker an exciting addition to the Wales Stena team.

Barker, one of the most promising young riders in Britain, is contracted to the DFL team but has been given a late release to join Winn.

There was a blow for the Ireland team this week with Paul Griffin’s withdrawal. The tough Tralee man, who rides with last year’s Rás winner, David McCann, for Giant Asia, was forced to cry off because of contractual problems. McCann took the yellow jersey in the Tour of Korea this week and is defending it with Griffin’s help.